It’s been two centuries since someone murdered the last Guardian of the Way, closing off this world from the many realms of magic and fae.

Cassiopeia “Cass” Wilson is an eighteen-year-old living on her own for the first time. The only magic she’s interested in is the kind that will help her pay the bills on time. Little does she know that a trip to the hospital after a fainting spell will change her life forever.

Cass soon learns she may be fae, and everything points to her being the next Guardian of the Way. There’s just one problem: whoever—or whatever—killed the last Guardian wants Cass dead too.

Cass quickly runs into problems, and an attack by djinn is just the first. But Cass joins forces with a wrath daemon, were-creatures, and fae on a quest to reach the Lighthouse—the site of the Way.

Cass soon learns about wizards desperate to keep the Way closed to serve their dark purposes, and she comes to a crossroads: will she take the test to become the new Guardian and leave her normal life behind? Or will the Way remain closed to all who need it?

“Get out! I don’t care who you are. Leave now, or I’m calling the police.”

Cass would have to move away from the door for the men to leave. So I’ll just leave. She could call the police from out on the street. As she turned the door handle and shifted around to bolt, the second man spoke. “Two more of us are posted outside, with more on the way. That’s not a threat…” It sure sounded like one. “…just an explanation. We aren’t…we can’t leave. Short of leaving, we’ll comply with whatever makes you feel safe. We brought your .38 out from the bedroom if holding it would help you.”

Cass’ open gun safe sat next to her gleaming .38 Ruger on the coffee table. She wanted to pick it up and check it, but that would bring her closer to the men. As if she had said that last thought aloud, both men suddenly appeared by the kitchen. She blinked, not understanding how anyone could move that fast. The taller man moved with grace, but the shorter man’s shoulder crashed into the kitchen hutch.

The taller man snickered. “Walk much, old one?”

The other man growled back, “It’s too bright in this world, and there’s too much space everywhere.”

Author Bio:

Diane is a Tennessee transplant, animal rescuer, and nurse. Dog Gone is her debut novel, born from years of hearing animal rescuers say about animal abusers, “If only I could get my hands on that person...” Diane is assisted by her many rescue dogs.